School-Savvy Converse

Schools are no longer as simple as before. Unfortunately, there are not many bags that can handle both – style and function that is, until Converse releases its back-to-school bag collection!

Brett Catublas of Converse (who designed the bag collection)

Inspired by function, fueled by passion for fashion, this Back-to-School season, Converse stands out with a selection that’s all about clean lines, edgy appeal and multi-functionality all in one stylish package.

The Converse utility bag gives a new spin to the word utility. Slightly bigger than your palm, this bag can carry your basic essentials, from your iPod gadgets, cellphones, keys and wallets, down to your make-up essentials. Its multi-pocket design allows for organization, while its long adjustable strap makes carrying it around a breeze! Cute and stylish, the Converse shoulder bags are pretty functional – big enough for your notes and everyday carry-ons, but adequately small for easy traveling. A big front pocket allows for easy access to your change, your IDs, car keys and even your mp3 player without having to open up the main compartment.

Since its inception, the messenger bag had nearly everyone hooked! Be it black, navy or gray, the potentials are endless for a Converse messenger bag – from just carrying your stuff to being a substitute pillows during those long breaks.

And a bag collection will not be complete without backpacks! Built-in document divider makes it easy to organize your files, and its roomy interior allows you to pack not only your notebooks, but also a couple of your books. Multiple pockets make reaching for your pens and coins easy and its streamlined design makes it stylish without being too loud. Amp up your choice with another equally stylish bag that adds a pocket or two for your mp3 player and even side mesh pockets for your water bottle and umbrella.

Laptops are a must these days, and Converse definitely have that need covered with a backpack that have a laptop-divider and padded straps aside from a handy kit pouch. More than that, it also comes with the option to customize with the varied designs of Converse utility bags. 

Catch the back-to-school fever only at Converse! Like us on Facebook for daily dose of Converse goodness and don’t forget to log on to www.converse.com.ph for other Converse products.

Working Mom’s first-ever cover dad… GARY VALENCIANO SHARES HIS SECRET ON THIS MONTH’S ‘WORKING MOM’ ISSUE

You don't need to get your eyes checked. That's Gary Valenciano with daughter Kiana on Working Mom's June 2011 issue as the magazine's first-ever cover dad.

 "Moms aren't the only ones who juggle work and family," writes editor-in-chief Dedet Panabi in her editor's note. "Lots of dads want to be part of their kids' lives, and it's about time we applaud their efforts!"

In this special issue, the Father's Day celebration starts with Gary V and why he represents the new, hands-on dad (one of his secrets: still having that "spark" with wife Angeli). Then, an invitation to be inspired by the stories of singer-composer Gary Granada and former basketball star Freddie Hubalde whose kids decided to follow their footsteps. And Working Mom rounds off the celebration by honoring single moms who stand as fathers to their children.

A Working Mom June issue won't be complete, however, without its back-to-school guide. This year, the magazine pulled out all the stops to bring readers more than 100 products and tips for a happy and stress-free school year. We've got every problem covered, from school baon to must-have school supplies. 

Check out out Working Mom's amazing June 2011 issue at your favorite newsstand.

Espresso and Cream Ice Blended OPEN HOUSE!!!!

Good morning everyone!The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf have something to offer this Sunday at their stores except at DLSU Cybernook, University Mall - Taft Avenue, and Ayala Avenue Convergys.

They got something exciting happening this weekend and they are sure you're all gonna love it - It's Open House time once again! :) Join us for our Espresso & Cream Ice Blended Open House on Sunday, May 29, 10am-12nn and enjoy a complimentary 12oz. beverage! RSVP at our events page (http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=111770532243190) and spread the word to all your friends! Have a great week ahead!

Big Surprised at the Big Bang!!!!

Last May 14, 2011 ,Me and my kids were invited for the free photo session at Big Bang Studio in celebration of their 1st year anniversary.And the photo session was really fun and exciting; thanks to Pearl  and Madz of Big Bang Studio.And there is a lot more SURPRISES at BIG BANG!

As their way of saying THANK YOU for those who celebrated with them on their FIRST YEAR ANNIVERSARY last May 14! 

PORTRAITS with a BANG! was created to Win a Big Bang Studio GC worth Php 3,000.00!

QUALIFIED PARTICIPANTS: All “Big Surprise from Big Bang” anniversary promo participants are qualified for this contest.

They will be uploading your best photo at the “BIG Surprise at BIG BANG: Contest Entries” album. This is automatically your entry for the contest. 


Only the chosen portrait uploaded in this album of the registered participant will be considered for the contest. Don’t worry, your group portraits will be uploaded in a different album, so watch out for that as well! ☺

Invite your FB friends to be a fan and “like” BIG BANG STUDIO and ask them to “like” your photo. 

Of course as we participated on their anniversary and my kids have their entries..So help me to like "Big Bang Studio" and also feel free to like the photos of my 2 lovely kids..

Here is my daughter KC Aguas like her photo!!

And here is my little boy CJ Aguas I'm sure you'll love him that's why you have to like!!!

The entries with the highest number of likes wins! 

Voting starts once the photos are the uploaded. Voting ends on June 30, 2011 at exactly 12:00nn. The winner will be announced the same day. ☺

Most liked photo entries gets a chance to win a BIG BANG STUDIO GIFT CERTIFICATE worth Php 3,000.00!( I love that gc)

Bounty Fresh: Chic Mom Club

Moms like me are a busy lot, juggling multiple things at the same time—from managing her household to their business to her personal “me time” and also time for my girlfriends.

  

Bounty Fresh, Asia’s Best and the pioneer in vacuum-packed chicken recently unveiled its latest offering, the Chic Moms Club (www.chicmomsclub.com), a one-stop website/ online club for the busy, tech savvy and chic moms, that includes chic mom tips in fashion, home and health, dinning and food and events.The launch was hosted by Issa Litton that really stand out on her red dress ( I love it).

In a very stylish event, Chic Moms Club fulfilled its promise in giving their members cool promos, prizes and stuff that are truly worth their bounty time with no less than Ms. Lea Salonga, Bounty Fresh ambassador and a chic mom herself, gracing the event at The Manila Peninsula.

 “I like reading. In between takes, during travels, I make do of the time surfing the net and reading interesting websites and one of those that I regularly visit is the Chic Moms club site. I feel it is constantly updated and it has interesting tidbits of information that is always relevant for moms like travel tips, home and health tips and such.”  Salonga said.

“This event is a celebration of all moms. We understand how moms are generally busy and we know that a one-stop venue such as the www.chicmomsclub.com website helps in their time management, while providing entertainment and information as well,” shares Ms. Kathlene Gomez, Assistant Brand Manager of Bounty Fresh.

Gomez added, “through the website, we communicate our latest promos such as our Php 10 discount on Bounty Fresh chicken bought at Chooks-to-Go outlets, E-recipes from well-

known chefs and of course, exclusive invites to Bounty Fresh events.”

Spicing the chic unveiling were interviews from exclusive and renowned chefs Bruce Lim, Sau Del Rosario, Melissa Sison, David Pardo de Ayala and Jessie Sinscioco answering why they 

prefer Bounty Fresh chicken.

“We are very much impressed with how Bounty Fresh is packed.  Compared to other chickens around and the takal system in public markets, Bounty Fresh is vacuum-sealed and its freshness is packed and preserved. The chicken comes out plumpier and juicier, making our dishes tastier and more delicious. I consider this vacuum-packed chicken the Angus of Dressed Chicken.” Chef Sau Del Rosario explained.

Also highlighted was Bounty Fresh’s partnership with Rags to Riches with its president Therese Fernandez commenting on Bounty Fresh’s new project and its continuing support to RIIR in helping conserve the environment while providing source of income for the makers of RIIR bags.

Wrapping up the event, chic moms club members and the media went home with cool prizes while a lucky winner snatched a brand new Samsung Galaxy tablet. Chic Moms Club is fast growing and has generated more than 20,000 members since its initial public introduction.

UNICEF: Auction for Action

UNICEF Philippines is launching its first fundraising online auction entitled Auction for Action: A UNICEF Fundraising Online Auction to benefit children’s programs in the Philippines and worldwide (www.ebay.ph/unicef goes live on 25 May 2011). This unique online auction in partnership with Ayala Malls, Ebay.ph and Cibo brings together works of reputable artists in art, design, furniture, fashion, jewellery and photography along with exciting experiential packages.

Featured artists are: Manny Baldemor, Michael Cacnio, Celestina, Seb Chua, Kenneth Cobonpue, Araceli Limcaco Dans, Kristine Dee, Janina Dizon, Tom Epperson, Accessory Lab, Ito Kish, E. Billy Mondoñedo, Ramon Orlina, Debbie Palao, Ling Quisumbing Ramilo, Benji Reyes, Popo San Pascual, Vito Selma, Paul Syjuco, Ricky Toledo and Chito Vijandre of FIRMA/Felicity, Reg Yuson, and UNICEF Special Advocate for Children, Ms. Daphne Oseña Paez.

Galerie Joaquin artists such Jovan Benito, Jomar Delluba, Hamzah Marbella, Dominic Rubio and  Juvenal Sanso are also participating.

Experiential packages include dinner by Chef Tonyboy Escalante of Antonio’s and dugout experience with the Philippine Football Team or Azkals on July 3 at the World Cup qualifier in Manila.

UNICEF Country Representative Vanessa Tobin shares, “This is a first for UNICEF Philippines. Our partnership with acclaimed artists via online auction helps us engage the public in a new and interesting way. As well as raising important funds for our work, we will be able to raise awareness of important issues affecting children in the most disadvantaged communities of the Philippines and worldwide.”

“I know a lot of people recognize UNICEF’s valuable work in children’s rights, but few realize that UNICEF relies entirely on voluntary contributions to support its work on the ground. I’ve helped them educate moms all over the country on maternal health, mortality and breastfeeding. This time, I want to help UNICEF raise awareness and funds for all their other goals: providing children with health care, access to safe water and sanitation, education, and protection from violence, abuse and exploitation,” said UNICEF Special Advocate for Children Daphne Oseña Paez.

For Daphne, “the response from artists has been very encouraging, to say the least. It feels incredible to be able to work with such prominent artists for a worthwhile cause. I’m a great fan of

their work, but now I’m in even greater awe of their kindness and generosity. They put a lot of love and devote a lot of time into everything they create, so I know that beyond the beautiful art piece, the artists are really sharing a part of themselves with UNICEF.“

Celebrity host and also a UNICEF Special Advocate for Children Bianca Gonzalez adds, “I’ve been working with UNICEF since 2007 and I’m very excited to be a part of this unique fundraising auction. Whilst online auctions are quite new to the Philippines, it’s very secure and the best thing is you can participate from anywhere in the country.”

Auction for Action: A UNICEF Fundraising Online Auction on www.ebay.ph/unicef will go live on May 25, 2011. Watch out for exciting items up for bidding and help make a difference for children.    

UNICEF is on the ground in over 150 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive from early childhood through adolescence.  The world’s largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS. 

In the Philippines for over sixty years, UNICEF works through partners to reach disadvantaged children and communities to ensure children are healthy, educated and protected from harm. UNICEF is quick to respond in emergencies to ensure affected communities are reached and provided with services from local governments and other service providers.

I lilly lilly love Ryan Bang!!!

The first time I watched Ryan Bang was in Pinoy Big Brother Teen Clash Edition 2010 and he really marked in that edition because of his humor.He even awarded as the 2nd Teen Big Placer.After the life in Big Brother's house he was blessed with number of consecutive hosting stints and TV appearances, in different shows in the Kapamilya network, Ryan Bang has already become one of the most loved and awaited young stars on Philippine television today. And now, he is indeed ready to completely break into the world of show business with the release of his self-titled album.

We were invited  to witness his new album I Lilly Lilly Like It : Ryan Bang Party Party Hits! It has a seven-track compilation of today’s latest foreign dance hits and of course, Ryan’s first ever single, “I Lilly Lilly Like It”. Inspired by the ex-Pinoy Big Brother Housemate’s funny attempt at speaking English, the song is primarily about his fondness for entertaining his Filipino fans with his hilarious dance steps. It all started when he was still a judge in ABS-CBN’s Showtime, and Ryan, being the funny man he always is, danced all his moves off to satisfy the madlang people’s request for some “sample”.

There is more to Ryan’s single than his comedic pronunciation. The song writer made sure that it shows the young man’s love for the Filipinos and his evident drive to stay energetic whenever he performs his acts in front of them. Also included in the song lyrics are his other signature lines that were arranged for a well recall on how this Korean lad became famous in the country.

What makes the song even more exciting to listen to is its dance beat that is so much close to the tune of this generation’s well-known novelty hits. This dance collection will indeed get the listeners hooked and make them dance their way to some more celebration this summer. Include this in your play lists for fiestas and other parties and you will surely be having the liveliest last-song syndrome you’ve never had before.

Other dance party hits included in the album are Pan Americano (We No Speak Americano) by Yolanda Cool; Parapapa by Cidinho & Doca; Waka Waka by All Star Generation; Git With U by PSIX and the Bang mix of I Lilly Lilly Like It.

I Lilly Lilly Like It : Ryan Bang Party Party Hits!, released by Galaxy Records and distributed by PolyEast Records, is now available in stores nationwide . Get your copy for only Php199. Special thanks to Shimmian and Boysquad Tshirt.

Watch out on Sunday at ASAP Ryan Bang will do the sing and dance number to promote his album.

Catch the Robinsons Mall tour as follows and get a free Ryan Bang Tshirt for every CD purchase at the venue.

June 3 (Friday) 5pm  Robinsons Angeles, Pampanga

June 17 (Friday) 5pm Robinsons Dasmarinas, Cavite

June 24 (Friday) 5pm Robinsons Starmills, Pampanga

July 1 (Friday) 5pm Robinsons Sta. Rosa, Laguna

Festive 15 at The Body Shop!!

The Body Shop Philippines celebrates 15 years of Natural Beauty!That is why they lined up a lot of  promos only for you!!

Love Your Body Exclusive Promos from May 6 to June 16,2011.So what are you waiting for visit your nearest The Body Shop store and be member to grab the exclusives promos from your loving The Body Shop!! Love Your Body is a unique members club that rewards you with discounts, free gifts and access to the kinds of perks and privileges only club membership brings.

Just some of the reasons to join Love Your Body.

• 10% off ALL purchases for a year 
• A birthday gift from The Body Shop 
• Free gift on your fourth qualifying purchase* 
• Free gift on your eighth qualifying purchase* 
• Invitations to exclusive member events 
• News of product launches and updates on what's happening in our stores 
• Exclusive members offers

Love Your Body is not a store credit card. It doesn't use complicated point systems. It won't make you spend more on product you didn't need in the first place. Love Your Body gives you immediate and real benefits - and you'll experience them every time you use your card.

The Body Shop is giving away P150,000 CASH & 15 fabulous prizes on its 15th Year of Natural Beauty! 

Get one (1) raffle coupon for every purchase of P500 on any of our products. 

LYB MEMBERS GET TWO (2) RAFFLE COUPONS FOR EVERY P500! JUST SHOW YOUR CARD TO GET DOUBLE CHANCES OF WINNING!

Promo runs from MAY 15 to JUNE 16, 2011. Per DTI NCR Permit No. 3649 Series of 2011.

Golden ABC celebrates 25 years!!!

Golden ABC, Inc. was founded in Cebu in 1986 as a small retail and manufacturing business.By constantly introducing product innovations and maintaining a high level of professionalism in its operations, the company has grown to become a market leader in the Philippine fashion industry.

The company marks its 25th year in the fashion retail industry by bringing 500 of its corporate employees and Store Managers from all over the country for a two-day, three night's stay at the luxe Shangri- La Mactan Island Resort.Ted Belza, VP for Human Capital and Corporate spokesperson said, "We wanted to reward everyone in the Golden ABC family with an unforgettable trip that we can take together.After all, our continued success rests in their efforts."

With over 20 years in the marketplace,five own brands, a direct selling subsidiary, more than 350 stores and a combined workforce of over 1000 employees, GOLDEN ABC has grown to become one of the Philippines’ biggest and most dynamic brand builders. GOLDEN ABC owns the brands PENSHOPPE, OXYGEN, MEMO, FORME, and REGATTA and also has a direct selling subsidiary, RED LOGO. With presence all over the country, the company is also keen to expand internationally. We currently have stores in China, but at the same time, international franchises across the Middle East and South East Asia are also being forged. GOLDEN ABC aims to be the leading fashion company in the Philippines that passionately provides total customer satisfaction. It operates as a world class organization by being committed to the spirit of enterprise, professionalism, integrity and service.

The groundbreaking is one of the key highlights of GOLDEN AB'’s 25th anniversary, which started as a backyard t-shirt business in Cebu in the 80's to a now well-known fashion retailer with product lines that include accessories, footwear, fragrances and clothing. GOLDEN ABC CEO, Mr. Bernie Liu, said, "two decades ago, we started with only a handful of employees, 40 to be exact. What I thought of as a simple t-shirt business in Cebu is now a household brand." He furthered, "we believe that Quezon City, which we now consider our adoptive home, is the most strategic location for the business primarily because of the growth the city demonstrated in the past years and the promise that the city continues to show." The groundbreaking was graced by Quezon City’s vice mayor, Joy Belmonte, councilors Precious Hipolito and Roderick Paulate and also key officials, Head of the City Treasurer's office Mr. Edgar Villanueva, QC District Fire Marshall Senior Supt. Bobby Baruelo, Brgy. Captain Casiano dela Cruz, and representatives sent by QCPD’s head Chief Supt. Mantele. For her part, Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte said that the GOLDEN ABC building is very much looked forward to in the city. Belmonte furthered, "not only will this provide the needed employment opportunities within the city, but the development is very much welcome because on the growth roadmap is a stronger Balintawak area," which the local government is developing as one of the progressive areas of Quezon City. The groundbreaking was capped with an unveiling of the proposed new building's perspective and a time capsule laying ceremony. The time capsule includes mementos from the old building,, the new building perspective, blueprints, and tokens from each brand.

As it celebrates its 25th year, GOLDEN ABC continues to invest in the future of the Filipino child. The Ayala Business Club Cebu, Inc. hosted Apir! Daghang Salamat, Cebu! a benefit dinner and silent auction to re-launch Children's Hour in Cebu last January 21, 2011 at the Cebu Marriott Hotel. During the dinner, GABC turned over a check donation of a little more than One Million Pesos to Children's Hour Philippines. The entire amount came entirely from employee contributions matched by GOLDEN ABC CEO Bernie Liu and vendor partners. By virtue of Golden ABC, Inc.'s corporate governance on gift receiving, where suppliers and vendors are discouraged to give gifts to employees, they were instead asked to donate to Children's Hour--they gladly and generously did so. Liu, who is also a trustee of Children’s Hour and part of the Steering Committee of the Cebu chapter of Children's Hour, delivered the opening remarks. The keynote speech was delivered by Children's Hour Honorary Chair Ballsy Aquino-Cruz. According to Liu, "Part of our major milestone on this 25th year celebration is to try and involve more people in supporting GOLDEN ABC's various advocacies. As such, it gives a sense of purpose to the company and a way of giving back to society, to give back to its many loyal customers all these years."

Golden ABC's 25th anniversary celebration is testament to the company's strong efforts to fulfill its vision of becoming the most admired Asian fashion brands company.Through the mix of dynamic talents and operational excellence with responsible citizenship and a winning culture, GOLDEN ABC has successfully developed and created some of the most popular, leading brands in the country.

Trailblazer: PENSHOPPE Levels Up

This year is lavishly interrupted with a telltale narrative that takes us beyond the usual resort terrain into the whimsy and excitement of the jetset spotlight.The tableau takes on a documentary flavor - from the eyes of Pilar Tuason, resident lens crafter - rather than a high-fashion spread, and is set on a private hangar with aircraft a-plenty.

"This collection is a heavier on the basics: PENSHOPPE's irrefutable domain.Not only are the front liners decked out to rock'n'roll; but, the pesty paparazzi and frantic bodyguards are donning PENSHOPPE blazers and dark jeans as well, says brand director, Alex S. Mendoza.

Fronting the ad campaign are Solenn Heusaff, Akihiro sato,Bea Soriano and Mikael Daez.

In describing the current collection,Solenn notes,"It's so rock chic, which I absolutely identify with. I love the men's denim that's dipped in wax, which gives it a leather-like sheen." I love it, because it's very punk glam, and they do have the best pair of jeans bar-none -- studs and grommets add a whole lotta funk to the wardrobe," adds statuesque Bea Soriano.

Glammed up jeans and tees, in largely monochromatic and neutral hues with just the right splash of well- thought- out accessories fuse function with fashion effortlessly.

A new and very welcome addition to the PENSHOPPE model roster,Mikael Daez says, "PENSHOPPE has a diverse clothing line-up.For those who are stylish and trendy, they have the more spiffy array of choices and for the more laid-back folk, like me, they have most definitely kept us in mind and unforgotten too."

Meanwhile, PENSHOPPE brings its landing gear to the runway with TRAILBLAZER: Philippine Fashion Week Holiday 2011.The collection embodies those "known for independent thought, rugged individualism, and pioneering mindsets."

Whether you prefer to slip into a pair of leg-skimming embellished jeans, topped off with a stark white shirt to bring out your inner rock streak or emulate your favorite fashion icon by throwing over a leather jacket and dark sunnies to spruce up your wardrobe, you'll be making that bold and confident statement!